A delectable appetizer featuring golden toasted bread topped with creamy Brie, sweet caramelized onions, and a touch of fresh thyme—ideal for an elegant snack or starter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and impressive yet remarkably easy to prepare
- Perfect balance of creamy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors
- Ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying as a cozy snack
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- rustic bread slices
- Brie cheese, sliced
- yellow onions, thinly sliced
- olive oil
- butter
- brown sugar
- balsamic vinegar
- fresh thyme sprigs
- sea salt
- black pepper
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Sprinkle in the brown sugar, then add the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and soft.
- Meanwhile, toast the bread slices until golden brown—either in a toaster or under a broiler.
- Arrange the toasted bread on a serving platter. Top each slice with a few slices of Brie.
- Spoon a generous portion of caramelized onions over the Brie on each toast.
- Garnish each toast with a sprig of fresh thyme. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
- Makes about 6 toasts
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20–25 minutes
- Total time: approximately 35 minutes
Variations
- Add fruit: Top with a thin slice of pear or apple for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before serving.
- Spicy kick: Add a light drizzle of honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Herb swap: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- To store: Place leftover toasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat:
- Preheat oven or toaster oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- Place toasts on a baking tray and warm for 5–7 minutes, or until Brie is softened and onions are heated.
- Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
FAQs
What type of bread works best for these toasts?
Choose a rustic or artisan loaf such as a baguette, sourdough, or country bread. These varieties have sturdy texture and robust flavor that complement the rich toppings.
Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Yes—Camembert, mild goat cheese, or even a mild blue cheese are excellent substitutes that offer creamy texture and depth.
How do I caramelize onions properly?
Slice onions thinly and cook over medium or medium-low heat. Allow them to soften before adding sugar and vinegar, and continue cooking slowly, stirring occasionally. This slow process is key for richness and flavor.
Can I prepare the caramelized onions in advance?
Absolutely. You can caramelize the onions up to 3 days in advance, then store them refrigerated. Reheat gently before assembling the toasts.
Is balsamic vinegar necessary?
It enhances the sweetness and adds tang. You can swap it with red wine vinegar or omit it if preferred, though balsamic adds depth.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes—use plant-based butter and vegan Brie alternatives, or try a soft cashew-based cheese. The flavor will still be satisfying and creamy.
What’s the best way to keep the bread crisp?
Assemble just before serving, and use a sturdy bread that retains texture. Toasting thoroughly helps maintain crispness even after the toppings are added.
How do I prevent the Brie from overheating?
Simply add the Brie after toasting the bread, then spoon warm—but not too hot—onions over it. Brie should just soften, not melt completely.
Can I skip the thyme garnish?
Yes, though thyme adds fresh, aromatic notes that elevate the dish. You can omit it or substitute with another fresh herb.
Are these suitable for a light meal?
Absolutely. Two or three toasts, paired with a side salad, can make for an elegant, satisfying light lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Brie and Caramelized Onion Toasts are a sophisticated yet simple treat that combine creamy, savory, and sweet flavors on a perfectly toasted base. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, they’re an ideal appetizer for guests or a refined snack for yourself. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, these toasts will deliver elegance and flavor in every bite.
Print
Brie and Caramelized Onion Toasts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Toasting, Sautéing
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden toasted bread topped with creamy Brie, sweet caramelized onions, and a touch of fresh thyme, perfect for an elegant appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of rustic bread
- 6 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Pinch of sea salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle in brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes until onions are soft and caramelized.
- While onions are cooking, toast the bread slices in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown.
- Arrange toasted bread on a serving platter. Place slices of Brie on each toast.
- Spoon caramelized onions generously over the Brie.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve warm.
Notes
- Use a rustic or sourdough bread for the best texture and flavor.
- For added flavor, drizzle with a bit of honey before serving.
- These toasts are best served immediately while warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 toast
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *